Motivation Australia’s team has just returned from Port Moresby after the first Pacific Mobility Device Service (MDS) Project visit to PNG partners the National Orthotics and Prosthetics Service (NOPS). Motivation Australia has had a long history of partnership with NOPS, beginning in 2005 with training input for national personnel about basic wheelchair service provision. In 2016 the Strengthening Access to Assistive Technology project resulted in the zero draft of the Guidelines on the Provision of Assistive Technology in PNG.
This year, with NOPS joining the Pacific MDS Project, we are working together on activities designed to strengthen NOPS’s service systems, including:
- Data collection, analysis and reporting,
- Appropriate procurement of wheelchairs, walking aids, prosthetic and orthotic devices and consumable materials.
We are also working together on consolidating NOPS resources and service personnel and preparing for de-centralisation of services.
The team looks forward to sharing more news in the coming months!
MA acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) that has made the Pacific MDS Project possible.
If you would like more information about the Pacific MDS Project, contact Kylie Mines.